What is permanent partial disability in workers’ compensation?

Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) is a workers' compensation category for a permanent impairment that partially limits an employee's ability to work but does not render them completely unable to work. PPD usually occurs when an injured employee has reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI), i.e., the condition has stabilized and is not expected to get much better with further treatment.

PPD is utilized in workers' compensation programs when a worker experiences a permanent injury yet remains capable of performing some type of work—either at a reduced capacity, in a modified job, or in a different field altogether. A few examples of injuries that may warrant a PPD rating are the amputation of a limb, reduction of motion of a joint, chronic pain, or loss of function of a body part such as fingers, hands, knees, or eyes.

Once an injured worker has reached MMI, they are evaluated by a doctor and assigned an impairment rating. This rating reflects the degree to which the worker's functional capacity has been lost and is a major determinant of eligibility and compensation under permanent partial disability. The rating is most often a percentage and is used by insurance carriers and state workers' comp bureaus to calculate the amount and duration of benefits.

PPD benefits are designed to compensate for loss of earning capacity due to the injury. Depending on the state and specific case, the benefits are either paid as scheduled or unscheduled awards. Scheduled losses are for injuries involving body parts listed in a state's disability schedule (e.g., arms, legs, eyes) and which have predetermined compensation amounts. Unscheduled losses entail injuries like damage to the neck or back that are evaluated case-by-case as a function of the employee's age, job, and capacity to earn a wage.

It should be remembered that PPD will not exclude the person from returning to the workplace. Many patients with PPD go back to work with jobs adapted or jobs involving another occupation. As the injury has caused a lasting limitation, though, the employee will receive compensation that addresses this lasting impact.

If a PPD claim is denied, or if an employee believes that the impairment rating given is not sufficient, he or she has the right to appeal. Understanding what permanent partial disability is and how it’s evaluated is essential, as the process can be complex. Consulting professional services from an experienced workers' compensation attorney can help ensure the required documentation, accurate ratings, and fair compensation.

At JoePluta.net, attorney Joe Pluta is committed to fighting for individuals facing permanent disabilities. With deep legal expertise and a client-first approach, he works tirelessly to secure the benefits, compensation, and peace of mind his clients